Ellie’s thoughts about her parents reflect the love she has for them, as does her worry that they are dead. This fear, as well as her belief that war is something that happens elsewhere, reflects her young age and naivety. Ellie can’t imagine a life without her parents taking care of her, and her sheltered life at home does not involve the worry of war. Up to now, Ellie has considered her parents and their life in rural Australia the whole world, but she is quickly learning this isn’t the case.